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“Self” Words

Self-sufficient, self-indulgent, self-esteem, self-service, self-image, selfish, self-important, self-employed, self-improvement, self-taught, self-made millionaire, self-contained, self confidence, self-centered, self-appointed, self-absorbed, self-confessed, self-respect, self discipline, self loathing, self-inflicted, self-rising, self-promotion, self-identity, self-concept, self-help

“Multi” Words

Multicultural, multiplication, multimodal, multinational, multitude, multiple, multidisciplinary, multimedia, multi-millionaire

The table above lists words with the prefix “self” or “multi”. These are words taken from memory rather than the dictionary. There is a clear difference in quantity between the two groups of words. The typical American is socialized into an individualist culture. We are a nation of individuals concerned with competition, consumption, and the development of “self”. Compared to collectivist cultures who base success on conformity and group cohesiveness, Americans are always trying to be the best, to be individuals who are “self-reliant”, who know themselves and are happy with their “self-image”. According to Schaefer (2012), we learn by interacting with others, the expectations of our society dictates our behavior and what is appropriate for us to function in society. As an egocentric American, I have attempted to be more socially responsible, respecting other cultures and my environment, although I find it hard to fight my selfish impulses when it involves the latest gadgets.

Americans have access to modern technology, education and we have few restrictions on travel. We seldom consider the restrictions many developing cultures experience including their limited resources. Corporations often exploit local workers to maximize profits (Schaefer, 2012). Populations of people experiencing poverty and a lack of employment will often work for corporations for less than optimal wages, something restrictions and regulations in American prevent. We are a nation concerned with “me” rather than “we”. Globalization could be good for our country; I think we are becoming more “aware” of the world around us with internet exposure. However, globalization may not benefit everyone. Government restrictions and poverty can prevent people from being a part of the digital revolution, thus widening the gap and further isolating people in underdeveloped countries.